I think the problem was that it was also my introduction into the world of the story, so it always takes some time (with me) to get into the story.

I should probably learn not to read the short stories until I've read at least one full length novel of a series, but sometimes it is an easy way of giving a series a try...

Yeah, I agree. I like short stories because I can try out an author and see if I like his/hers writing style.

Thanks for the recommendation. I once read one of his books. I remember I quite liked it. :)